4 Panthers fighting for their futures in preseason Week 3 vs. Bills
By Dean Jones
Kenny Robinson – Carolina Panthers S
The strides made by Kenny Robinson last season were encouraging. Something that left many wondering if the talented defensive back could become more involved this time around.
Robinson has the skills to make a difference and is a proven performer on special teams, which the Carolina Panthers value highly in those further down the pecking order. However, getting ejected on consecutive days during joint practices with the New England Patriots has the potential to jeopardize all the hard work he’s put in over the last two years.
The Panthers claimed after some fiery sessions with Bill Belichick’s men that they would look at the film before deciding whether urgent action was needed. Robinson clearly got a reprieve, but he’ll need to stand out considerably to avoid further concerns about his status before final cuts.
It would be a huge surprise if Robinson didn’t make the team. Even if the safety unit has plenty of options and a new starter alongside Jeremy Chinn after Xavier Woods signed in free agency from the Minnesota Vikings.
Joint practices come with skirmishes, that’s almost a guarantee. It’s been a long time since the Panthers had the mentality of not rolling over and one cannot dismiss Rhule’s pre-camp speech to his players about fighting for everything.
Robinson has proven performance levels working in his favor. But he needs a good showing to get people talking about the football side once again.